Aims

This module provides an introduction to the formal syntax and
semantics of natural language, in particular Montague-style
compositional semantics using a Categorial Grammar model of
syntax. Half of the module will focus on the theory of syntax,
followed by an example of how recent advances in parsing technology
allow such a theory to be implemented in practice, operating on
naturally occurring text. The other half of the module focuses on
truth-conditional compositional semantics of sentences, computational
implementation of this approach, and probabilistic inference for
semantic interpretation.

Objectives

understand how the syntax of natural language sentences can be modelled
using a type-driven (Combinatory) Categorial Grammar;

understand how a wide-coverage grammar of English can be constructed;

have studied one approach to statistical parsing in detail;

understand how the meaning of natural language sentences can be modelled
using a logical, model-theoretic approach;

understand how the meaning of natural language sentences can be constructed
using Frege's principle of compositionality;

understand how this approach to meaning can be combined with
probabilistic inference;

gain an appreciation of how syntactic and semantic theory can be
implemented in practice.

Assessment

Four ticked take-home tests or short practicals. Each ticked test
is worth 5% of the final assessment for the course. Tests will be due
in one week after assignment and ticked (with feedback) by Professor
Briscoe and Dr Clark.

One final take-home exam covering all the material taken at beginning
of Easter Term. Final take-home exam will contribute 80% to the final
assessment. Questions set and marked by Professor Briscoe and Dr
Clark.